Footage appeal after Kawerau shooting

The scene of the fatal shooting near Te Teko, Eastern Bay of Plenty, on Thursday. DOMINICO ZAPATA/STUFF

As police continue to investigate the fatal shooting of a 29-year-old man in the Bay of Plenty, appeals are being made for anyone who saw the incident unfold.

The man’s death was a conclusion of events that unfolded in Kawerau on Thursday morning.

At a media stand-up at Kawerau Police Station, Bay of Plenty District Commander Superintendent Andy McGregor says police received a call at 9am with reports a man who had been using methamphetamine, had discharged a firearm at another family member near Kawerau.

While police were investigating the family harm incident, the same offender entered the Kawerau First Credit Union armed with a sawn-off shotgun and demanded money.

"At about 10.20am the vehicle made a stop at State Highway 30," says Andy.

"Armed officers went forward. The offender presented a firearm at them and discharged a shot.

"Officers returned fire. It's a tragic event that no police officer wishes to deal with.”

Today, police are appealing for anyone who witnessed the events unfold to come forward.

“As part of the investigation Police would like to hear from anyone who saw the incident as it unfolded over rural roads between Edgecumbe and Kawerau yesterday between 9am and 10.30am,” says Detective Inspector Mark Loper.

“Investigators believe there would have been a number of people travelling on the roads who would have seen the incident and may have dash cam footage from when they have driven past the incident as it unfolded.”

Anyone with information or footage is asked to contact Rotorua Police on 07 349 9400.

Information can also be shared anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.